Okay, I'm in need of a tarp. Upgrading from a blue poly tarp.
Something with decent coverage, mostly spring to early fall weather.
I'd like something under 100 dollars, but the cheaper the better.
Weight isnt really a huge issue.
I'm not sure what shape I should go for, I'd like to have the option of a storm mode if the bottom falls out.

What are my best options?

Thanks for any help in advance.

08-03-2011, 19:14

dragon360

Check out Brian at OES equipment. He'll have a few straight cut or cat cut tarps that are under or around $100. There are definitely others places to check (Warbonnet, gargoyle, wilderness logics) but they may not exactly fit your current budget. Good luck and hope this helps some.

08-03-2011, 19:14

Catavarie

I'd suggest either the Big Daddy or the Tad Pole from Wilderness Logics. The Big Daddy is larger and you can add side tie outs for an additional $15. The Tad Pole is better if you are, or think you make become weight conscious. Plus they are produced down the road from you in Thomasville, NC

P.S. If you can find someone willing to part with their's a Guide Gear 12x12 provides excellent coverage and the corners can be pulled in for storm doors when the weather gets really bad.

08-03-2011, 19:58

REV

i was on a hugely tight budget but i went for a superfly. its a lot of tarp, but i feel that im covered for just about every situation possible, and i can go down in size later. just something to think about.

08-03-2011, 20:02

griesl

Quote:

Originally Posted by REV

i was on a hugely tight budget but i went for a superfly. its a lot of tarp, but i feel that im covered for just about every situation possible, and i can go down in size later. just something to think about.

What he said. Plus, an older one just went on the FS forum for about $100.

08-03-2011, 20:03

Acer

If you get a small tarp,,your always going to want something alittle bigger,,,go as big as you can afford and don't scrimp as you will always say to yourself..I want something bigger and should have gotten bigger.

08-03-2011, 20:10

zukiguy

Be Patient

If you just wait there's always a gram weenie upgrading to something in cuben fiber and unloading their beautiful "old" tarp for a fair price.

I've seen a lot of folks on here speak highly of the Kelty Noah tarps for the "bang for the buck". They're not what you'd call ultralight but will work great for car/canoe camping.

I love my MacCat Deluxe and hope to scrounge up the funds for some beaks/doors later. Since I mostly do fair weather trips they're not a necessity but sure would be nice. On my last AT trip I weathered the worst storm I've ever been in and it came through without a scratch and I stayed dry.

08-03-2011, 20:42

Deadphans

The Big Daddy is somewhere in the areas of 10'X11' and its just under a 100 bucks. Great tarp and excellent craftsmanship. Plus your supporting local families. What can be grander than that?

08-03-2011, 20:42

aboyd

I have a Shangri La tarp from Arrow Head Equipment, I really like it, Paul does great work. I decided to make myself a bigger tarp for those trips where the weather might get worse, but have weathered some pretty rough stuff under the Shangri La and stayed dry.

08-03-2011, 21:19

chrisis138

Alot of great info. I appreciate all the help. I looked into a gear guide 12x12, can't find then anywhere. Ill just look at it as a reason to treat myself. I definitely dont want to scrimp on size, or quality and regret it. The big daddy look like it might be a winner. Hmm now do I want side tie outs? Lol